Paleo Vegan Carrot Cake Bars

Paleo Vegan Carrot Cake Bars are a delightful treat that combine the sweetness of carrots with a moist and flavorful base. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a satisfying snack. With their wholesome ingredients and rich taste, they stand out as a healthy dessert option that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Health-Conscious Ingredients: Made with almond flour and coconut sugar, these bars are gluten-free and refined sugar-free.
• Easy to Make: The simple steps ensure that even novice bakers can whip these up without any hassle.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or breakfast option; they fit perfectly into various meal plans.
• Irresistible Flavor: A warm blend of spices with the natural sweetness of carrots makes every bite delightful.
• Vegan Friendly: Completely plant-based, these bars cater to vegan diets without compromising on taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin baking your Paleo Vegan Carrot Cake Bars, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen for an easy baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking pan (8×8 or 9×9)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: The right size ensures even cooking, giving your cake bars the perfect texture.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows for easier mixing of dry and wet ingredients separately before combining.
• Whisk or spatula: These tools help achieve a smooth batter, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups almond flour
• 1/4 cup coconut flour
• 3/4 cup coconut sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
• 2/3 cup almond milk, room temperature
• 1 cup shredded carrots

Optional Add-Ins

• 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)

Frosting Ingredients

• 1/4 cup coconut butter
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons ghee or butter flavored coconut oil for vegan
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

How to Make Paleo Vegan Carrot Cake Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 (or 9×9) pan with parchment paper. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Combine almond flour, coconut flour, coconut sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Stir well until evenly mixed.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add in the melted coconut oil and almond milk to the dry mixture:
1. Stir until everything is combined.
2. Fold in shredded carrots along with optional ingredients like pecans, raisins, and shredded coconut if using.

Step 4: Bake the Mixture

Scoop the batter into your prepared pan:
1. Spread it evenly across the surface.
2. Bake for 30-33 minutes or until edges are slightly brown.
3. Allow cooling before frosting.

Step 5: Prepare the Frosting

Once cooled:
1. Warm up the coconut butter until smooth if needed.
2. In a small bowl, combine coconut butter, maple syrup, ghee or vegan alternative, vanilla extract, and salt.
3. Stir well until you achieve a smooth consistency.

Step 6: Frost and Serve

Spread the frosting over cooled cookie bars:
– Cut into squares and enjoy! Store any leftovers in the fridge for later delight.

With these easy steps, you’ll have delicious Paleo Vegan Carrot Cake Bars ready to impress your family and friends!

How to Serve Paleo Vegan Carrot Cake Bars

Paleo Vegan Carrot Cake Bars are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with various accompaniments to enhance their flavor.

With Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Strawberries – Fresh strawberries add a sweet, juicy contrast to the dense bars.
• Berries Medley – A mix of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries provides a burst of flavor and color.

With Dairy-Free Yogurt

• Coconut Yogurt – This creamy option complements the spices in the cake bars while keeping the dish vegan-friendly.
• Almond Milk Yogurt – A light and tangy addition that pairs well with the sweetness of the bars.

As a Breakfast Option

• With Nut Butter – Spread almond or cashew butter on top for added protein and richness.
• With Chia Seed Pudding – Serve alongside chia pudding for a nutritious breakfast that satisfies.

For Afternoon Snacks

• With Herbal Tea – Enjoy your cake bars with a cup of chamomile or peppermint tea for a calming afternoon treat.
• With Non-Dairy Milk – Pairing with almond or oat milk makes for a refreshing snack.

How to Perfect Paleo Vegan Carrot Cake Bars

To achieve the best results with your Paleo Vegan Carrot Cake Bars, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensuring almond milk and coconut oil are at room temperature helps achieve a smooth batter.
• Grate Fresh Carrots – Freshly grated carrots provide better moisture and texture than pre-packaged options.
• Don’t Overmix – Mix just until combined to maintain the bars’ soft and fluffy texture.
• Check Oven Temperature – Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for even cooking.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting – Letting the bars cool fully prevents the frosting from melting into them.

Best Side Dishes for Paleo Vegan Carrot Cake Bars

Complement your Paleo Vegan Carrot Cake Bars with these delicious side dishes that enhance their flavors:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness to your dessert table.
2. Nutty Granola – Crunchy granola made with nuts and seeds can provide a satisfying textural contrast when served alongside.
3. Coconut Chia Pudding – This creamy, slightly sweet pudding pairs perfectly with the spice flavors of carrot cake.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness complements the cake bars while adding nutritional value.
5. Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with a citrus dressing balances out the richness of the bars beautifully.
6. Dairy-Free Ice Cream – A scoop of coconut or almond milk ice cream turns your dessert into an indulgent treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Paleo Vegan Carrot Cake Bars even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Incorrect Measurements: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can alter the texture and flavor. Always measure ingredients accurately with proper measuring cups and spoons.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Cutting into the bars while they are still warm can cause them to crumble. Allow them to cool completely before slicing for clean edges.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense bars. Stir just until the ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Ignoring Optional Ingredients: Optional add-ins like pecans, raisins, or coconut can enhance flavor and texture. Don’t skip them if you want a richer taste!
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in an unheated oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure consistent baking results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Paleo Vegan Carrot Cake Bars

• Wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Paleo Vegan Carrot Cake Bars

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F, place bars on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: For a quick warm-up, use a skillet over low heat; cover briefly until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Paleo Vegan Carrot Cake Bars:

Can I use other flours?

Yes, you can experiment with different gluten-free flours like oat flour or cassava flour; however, it may change the texture.

How do I make these bars sweeter?

If you prefer sweeter bars, consider adding more coconut sugar or maple syrup according to your taste preference.

Can I substitute almond milk?

Yes, any plant-based milk such as coconut milk or cashew milk works well as a substitute in this recipe.

How do I store leftover frosting?

Leftover frosting can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a quick stir before using again.

Final Thoughts

These Paleo Vegan Carrot Cake Bars are not only delicious but also versatile! Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite nuts or dried fruits. Perfect as a snack or dessert, they cater to various dietary preferences while still being indulgent. Try making them today and enjoy their delightful flavors!